Robert Leonard Carey 1951 - 2026

Robert Leonard Carey 1951 - 2026

Robert Leonard Carey, 75, of Hatfield MA, passed away peacefully on Friday, July 23, 2026 at Hospice of the Fisher Home in Amherst, MA.  He died of glioblastoma, one of the most aggressive forms of brain cancer. 

Born in Northampton, MA at Cooley Dickinson Hospital on February 3, 1951, Robert was a lifelong resident of the Pioneer Valley and was known for his appreciation of the outdoors and the simple joys of home and nature. He especially enjoyed spending time outside and lovingly caring for his garden, taking pride in watching it grow and flourish.

He began growing vegetables in high school.  He then branched out, creating flower gardens in addition to growing vegetables. When he moved Into his first apartment he decorated it with indoor houseplants.  His specialty was healthy, constantly blooming African violets.  Very few other plants in the world can live in our homes and bloom so often with minimal care.  He approached life with curiosity, always encouraging others to keep learning and to stay kind.  Cooking was another of his passions.

Robert dedicated the majority of his working life to serving as a Security Officer at the Williston Northampton School. He was a familiar and dependable presence in the school community.

Robert will be remembered for the life he shared with those who knew and loved him, and for the quiet moments, interests, and memories that made him special to his family and friends.

A devoted husband to his wife, Betty Snow, for nearly forty years, Robert is survived by his three siblings, Alice Holmes, Ann Carey (husband Fred Mielke), and Richard  Carey (wife Liz Carey) and four nieces. He was predeceased by his parents Leward and Lucienne (Dion) Carey and brother-in-law Carroll Holmes.  Robert's memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved  him.

A memorial service will be held at St. Philip’s Episcopal Church, 128 Main St., Easthampton, MA on September 12, 2026 at 2 PM with a reception to follow in the parish hall. The family asks that in lieu of flowers please consider a donation for the memorial garden at St. Philip’s in Robert Carey’s memory.

Send your donation payable to St. Philip’s Episcopal Church to 128 Main St., Easthampton, MA  01027.  In the memo field write: memorial garden donation in Robert Carey’s memory.

A graveside service will be held at noon on Monday, September 14, 2026 at CAREY plot #634A, grave #2  Brookside Cemetery, 65-69 Williston Ave, Easthampton MA.